Objective:
Utilize cotton breeder's samples to demonstrate the feasibility that near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy of raw cotton can accurately predict the quality of cotton yarn

Approach:
The research will emphasize the expansion of the project to obtain a larger sample base, NIR data collection and modeling, yarn quality measurements, and miniature processing. CSQ personnel at SRRC will work with Dr. Campbell (ARS Florence) who will supply cottons from his elite breeding line trials. These 4-replicate field trials are evaluated in multiple locations in SC and NC and consist of 16 elite breeding lines and 4 commercial check varieties. Under Dr. Liu direction, Dr. Liu and Dr. Rodgers would collect representative NIR spectra, using various NIR instruments, on the raw cotton in preparation for it to be fed through SRRC's miniature card. Chris Delhom will process these cottons via miniature spinning into 20/1 's yarn to produce enough yarn for full UT4/5 uniformity and Tensorapid tensile tests. Dr. Liu would then attempt to model spectra obtained from the raw cotton to predict the pertinent yarn quality parameters (tenacity, elongation, toughness, uniformity, defect imperfections, hairiness, etc) In the performance of this work, Drs. Liu and Rodgers are responsible for spectroscopy and modeling. Dr. Campbell would supply the breeder's samples, and Mr. Delhom would be leading the work on miniature processing.